Anne Skilki

I’m on my second reading of this book. It is a beautiful and deep meditation about the well trodden theme of the hero going out into the world, being exploited and returning. The self pity and lack of human experience of the sons is brilliantly told. Jesus did not explain his parables to his audience but did to his disciples later. By reflecting on the many layered meanings within this parable the interpretation we put upon it is more precious and we own it. The beauty of this story is even more complex when Henri Nouwen adds very welcome insights about Rembrandt’s own life and treatment of the parable. I loved his explanation of the father’s hands, the duality of father and mother, that they portray and the very personal relevance of the parable to the author’s complex spiritual and personal life. The author seems anguished but finds consolation from the meditation and discovers his own belovedness in the great bounty of God’s love. I feel there has been a personal healing and happy ending. I agree that this parable is the synthesis of all Jesus teaching.

This book was so upsetting and totally without joy and hope I couldn’t finish the last 2 chapters!! The imagination which delves so fully into sadness, self harm, unrealistic sibling relationships and adult neglect seemed simply gratuitous wallowing in the breakdown of human spirit. I am still very disturbed after abandoning this book two weeks ago. No. Don’t read it unless this very dark side of humanity appeals to your nature.

This book is transformative. It must be THE central book on the essence of Christianity for the modern age. It is not necessarily a book only for Christians to read but all Christians should read this book. The deep insight into the love of God and the purpose of Jesus is the best explanation I’ve read. It deepens faith and love of God. It makes sense of the mission and life of Jesus in a way I have never heard it explained before. There is a beautiful connection made between passages from Old and New Testaments as well as important messages for humanity and our need to love and care for Creation. I think that it has much to say for people who may feel lonely or are suffering from addictions or problems in life, as the love God has for each of us wherever we are is very real and joyous. It’s hard to put into words something which seems to be outside of language. I signed up to his free daily meditations and contemplations on the Internet and find them very helpful. It continues Jesus central call for all humanity to change their way of thinking: not so much repent as previously interpreted but radically see life and purpose and relationship to others, and Creation differently and know and experience God’s love for everything in His Creation. God loves you deeply and you are not alone.